York Acorn push reigning champions close in narrow defeat

York made a strong start and took the lead after just seven minutes through Jordan Potter's try which was converted by twice goal-scorer Antony Chilton.

Thatto responded in kind to take a 16-6 advantage into half time thanks to scores from Niall Allen, Dave Pike and Harry Rearden as well as two Jack Jones conversions.

Only seven minutes into the second half, the Crusaders strengthened their position via an Adam Saunders try.

Acorn were not out of the contest though as Elliott Bulmer and Chris Rushworth crossed for the visitors to cut the deficit.

However Thatto bagged a fifth try through Connor Dwyer to take the game beyond York, who remain without a premier division win this season.

Acorn host Leigh Miners Rangers on Saturday (2.30pm).

Meanwhile, in division two, Heworth dropped points for only the second time in seven matches after drawing 10-10 at Clock Face Miners.

Clock Face opened the scoring on nine minutes when winger Tom Taylor bagged an unconverted try.

It looked as though those would be the only points posted in the first half until Heworth's Liam Jackson and Adam Dent combined to put Tom Barron over. Danny Allan's touchline conversion edged the Villagers ahead.

Both defences had dominated before Dent turned from provider to scorer on 66 minutes.

The Miners levelled the match with only six minutes left as Jack Haycock converted Ryan O'Driscoll's try.

The hosts had a late field-goal chance which drifted wide, leaving the match deservedly locked at 10-10 come the final whistle.

Next up for Heworth is a home clash with Hunslet Warriors (2.30pm) on Saturday.

Meanwhile, New Earswick All Blacks edged past Sharlston Rovers 28-22 in the Yorkshire Mens League Cup.

A brace from Will Holmes as well as tries from Joe Stearman, Dean Smith and Sean Malarkey secured the All Blacks win. Connor Calam hit three conversions with Malarkey also bagging a goal.

New Earswick are back in league action on Saturday at home to East Hull (2.30pm).